Best hotel deals in Florence

The cathedral dome and Giotto’s bell tower dominate the streets around Piazza del Duomo. South toward Piazza della Signoria, the Uffizi sits beside the Arno; Ponte Vecchio crosses to the Oltrarno. These landmarks are close together, but cobbled streets and crowds can slow a short walk.

Santa Maria Novella station is on the western edge of the historic center, with direct trains to Rome and Bologna and the T2 tram to Florence Airport. A hotel by the station eases an early departure. San Lorenzo and the Mercato Centrale are close by. Rooms on a busy street can be louder than inner courtyard rooms.

Across the Arno, Santo Spirito and San Frediano have workshops and restaurants, and evenings there feel unlike the Duomo streets. Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens are on this side. Santa Croce, east of the Uffizi, is close to its basilica and local dining, and the center is still walkable.

Florence is hot in July and August, with average afternoon highs around 90 °F at the airport. Spring and early autumn are easier for walking, though rain is more likely than in midsummer. The narrow historic streets are easiest on foot. Drivers should check limited traffic zone rules and hotel parking arrangements before arriving.